Businessman Lawrence Mudzinganyama has apologised to a group of women after a video showing him allegedly threatening them at an upmarket Sandton restaurant went viral on social media.
Also see: Siya Kolisi and more urge men to stand up against GBV
The incident reportedly took place at Vlamo restaurant at Sandton Gate on Friday, 18 September 2026, after the women allegedly rejected Lawrence’s romantic advances. In the footage circulating online, he is heard making threats against the women and referring to his wealth and status.
According to crime correspondent and activist Yusuf Abramjee, Lawrence has since issued a public apology, saying he accepts responsibility for his conduct.
He described his language as “unacceptable and unjustifiable,” adding that he should have removed himself from the situation and sought assistance from the restaurant’s management.
“I did not, and I accept responsibility for my words and conduct. I deeply regret the fear and distress I caused, as well as the public concern generated by the footage,” Lawrence said.
Statement regarding the incident at Vlamo
restaurant:•Issued in a personal capacity by:
Lawrence MudzinganyamaI apologise unreservedly to the women involved in the recent incident at Vlamo restaurant in
Sandton.The aggressive and threatening language I used was…
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) September 20, 2026
Also see: SA celebrities speak out against GBV amid Kempton Park killings
Lawrence Mudzinganyama vows to cooperate with police
Lawrence also acknowledged the seriousness of the incident, particularly amid South Africa’s ongoing concerns around violence against women.
He said he would cooperate with law-enforcement authorities regarding any investigation and would seek professional guidance.
He further committed to undertaking a conflict-management programme to help him deal with conflict and frustration more constructively.
“I recognise that an apology cannot erase the fear and distress caused. I must now demonstrate accountability through meaningful, sustained action and ensure that this conduct is never repeated,” he said.
Intimidation case opened
The apology comes as authorities investigate the incident.
SABC News reported that Vlamo restaurant confirmed that a case had been opened with the South African Police Service following the incident. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said police were prioritising the matter and described the threats as unlawful conduct.
Lawrence was arrested on Sunday, 20 September, and released on warning. He is expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on 1 October 2026, while police investigations continue, according to The Star.
The incident has also prompted scrutiny of Lawrence’s business interests. Moriel Infrastructure Group, where he served as executive chairman and director, announced that it had terminated its association with him following the incident.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has also instructed the South African National Roads Agency board to investigate the company’s appointment in connection with government tenders, Sowetan reported.
The viral footage and subsequent developments have sparked widespread discussion about threats against women, accountability and the consequences of threatening behaviour.
Good Morning Satafrika, can we please make sure that by 5pm we have this cloth called Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyama and his wealthy self in jail or we will deal with him. You can go around and doing such. I’m here to protect our Queens and our Country so let’s go. pic.twitter.com/hsX6IxoInc
— Zola Hashatsi ka Motsiri (@zola_hashatsi) September 20, 2026
Also see: Mzwakhe Mbuli weighs in on South Africa’s GBV crisis
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